In celebration of Charles Darwin

Next February will see the bicentennial celebration of the birth of Charles Darwin – the fêted British naturalist.

Festivities will also honour the 150th anniversary of Darwin’s book 'On the Origin of the Species' – the text which changed the way biologists understand evolution – with special events taking place across the country.

At the Natural History Museum in London, for example, The Big Idea exhibition will illustrate Darwin's revolutionary theory between late 2008 and April 2009.

But for those looking for something a little further afield, travelbite.co.uk has here selected some of the best holidays available to travellers looking to celebrate the legacy of the great man.

South America; Argentina & Chile

Want some real Darwin expertise?

Focusing on the biologist’s Patagoninan playground, The Traveller’s 19-day tour is guided by Dr John von Wyhe – aka the director of Darwin Online, the largest collection of Darwin’s writings ever published.

The trip includes a journey over the Beagle Channel, an area extensively explored by Darwin, Magdalena Island’s 120,000-strong Penguin colony and historic lighthouse, Tarn Mount, which Darwin climbed, and Chiloe Island, where the naturalist observed unique vegetation and indigenous Indians.

Departing November 28th 2009, the trip costs £5,525 per person including flights from Heathrow, all taxes, all transfers, 17 nights’ B&B in two-four star accommodation, 22 other meals and the services of Dr John von Wyhe and local staff.

Galápagos Islands

The natural selection for enthusiasts next year will be the extraordinary and wonderful wildlife of the Galápagos Islands.

This remote archipelago is a unique environment that has become synonymous with Darwin’s theory of evolution; and boasts a mesmerising array of species which are truly amazing. As part of a captivating seven-night cruise, experience this incredible wildlife close up where splendid species including giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, sea lions, penguins, and marine and land iguanas.

Set sail from Santa Cruz, home of the Charles Darwin Research Station, and explore the Enchanted Islands' from £1,842 per person, based on two adults sharing. The trip includes return flights to Quito, seven nights’ full-board accommodation and guided excursions.

Head over to Sunvil for more information.

Down in Taz-Mania

Darwin’s trusty ship, HMS Beagle, charted a course to Tasmania, discovering a destination brimming with splendid species and fascinating fauna.

Now guests have a chance to nurture the naturalist in them with a terrific 21-day 'Treasures of Tasmania' escorted tour from All-Ways.

Showcasing the colonial heritage and spectacular natural beauty of Australia’s island state, the trips includes visits to Hobart, Cradle Mountain, Lake St Clair and Freycinet National Parks as well as the urban sophistication of mainland Melbourne and Sydney.

This Australian adventure in the land that filled Darwin with delight costs from £3,439 per person with two sharing, and includes return flights and taxes (Heathrow) via Bangkok to Sydney/from Melbourne, all transportation, 17 nights’ accommodation with most meals, a full sightseeing itinerary and the services of a tour manager.

Cape Verde

Darwin only made landfall at Cape Verde – meaning he missed out on the deserted beaches, active volcanoes and wealth of history boasted by the archipelago.

Explore has a 12-day walking group tour to 'The Fortunate Isles' which visits colonial Santiago, Pico de Fogo Volcano and the breathtaking mountain scenery of Santo Antao.

Next departing on October 15th 2009, the trip costs £2,350 per person; including flights (Heathrow – regional connections available), all transportation, ten nights’ full-board (eight in hotels, two in pensions) and the services of a tour leader.

Check out Explore for more information.

South Africa

For those looking to retain Darwin’s sense of intrigue Kirker Holidays is offering the chance to discover what’s hidden under the Western Cape of South Africa.

The trip includes a look at breathtaking Cape Town; from its vibrant city centre to the peaceful elegance of the Constantia hills, as well as a saunter along the majestic Cape to the Overberg, where whales converge to continue the species in one of the world’s great natural exhibitions (July to November), before draining a glass or two of South Africa’s finest amid the delightful countryside of the Winelands.

A self-drive journey of discovery starts from £1,725 per person (two sharing) including flights (Heathrow), private transfers, car hire, seven nights’ B&B and Kirker’s guide notes to restaurants and sightseeing in Cape Town.

For something with a conservation bent, an African Conservation Experience will let holidaymakers follow in Darwin’s footsteps and undertake some crucial animal research in South Africa.

Head to Plettenberg Bay - just along the coast from Cape Town, where Charles Darwin stopped off on his HMS Beagle voyage - and help to conserve the marine wildlife by learning how to identify and record number, breed, age, growth and behaviour of a variety of species through hands-on involvement.

Alongside experts from the Dolphin and Whale Research Centre you will observe these incredible creatures from close quarters against the stunning backdrop of South Africa’s Garden Route.

Two-week projects start from £2,190 per person, including flights, accommodation, all meals and project-related costs.

Life in the Azores

In 1866 Darwin visited the amazing Azores archipelago, seeking a plethora of plants and wildlife.

Evolutionary eyes were smiling that day as this was, and still is, one of the last natural paradises on earth. The islands have an untouched beauty and an array of unusual activities to enjoy, including whale watching, big game fishing, swimming with dolphins, off road jeep safaris and volcano climbing.

Guided walks are also available to explore the fantastic fauna at a more leisurely pace.

A week in nature’s paradise starts from £359 per person (two sharing), staying at the Hotel Vila Nova on the main island of Sao Miguel, including flights (Gatwick) to Ponta Delgada, transfers and seven nights’ B&B.

Take a look at Sunvil for more information.

Chris O'Toole